Category

Tdap Vaccine (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)

Tdap can be a very serious disease for adolescents and adults. The Tdap vaccine can protect us from:

Tetanus (Lockjaw)- which causes painful muscle tightening and stiffness, usually all over the body. It can lead to tightening of muscles in the head and neck so you can't open your mouth, swallow, or sometimes even breathe.

Diphtheria- can cause a thick coating to form in the back of the throat. It can lead to breathing problems, paralysis, and heart failure.

Pertussis (Whooping Cough)- causes severe coughing spells, which can cause difficulty breathing, vomiting and disturbed sleep. It can also lead to weight loss, incontinence, and rib fractures.

These diseases are caused by bacteria. Diphtheria and pertussis are spread from person to person through coughing or sneezing. Tetanus enters the body through cuts, scratches, or wounds.